Thursday, October 4, 2012

Problem Solving with Fractions

This fraction game introduces students to a character with an interesting dilemma.
Walker wants desperately to get home but the road has gaps that prevent him from
reaching his destination. At each gap, Walker is presented with
increasingly challenging tasks involving fraction pieces. Students must
help Walker solve these problems in order to move him closer to home. In the process, students apply their knowledge of fractions to an engaging problem within a meaningful context. Students work primarily with unit fractions at first but are later shown how to build any fraction needed.

Fraction concepts covered in this game include:

unit fractions

equivalent fractions

comparing fractions

adding and subtracting fractions

multiplying and dividing fractions

This
game is best presented as a whole group activity before students
explore on their own. An interesting component of the game is a tool
called the combinator. After solving simple challenges with unit
fractions, students are introduced to higher level fractions such as 2/3
and 3/4. Students build these fractions by physically dragging unit
fractions to the combinator. This tool provides a powerful visual
for students who are beginning to develop a deeper understanding of
fractions and how they are composed.

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About the Author

Colleen King is a math educator with 15 years experience working with K-12 students in a variety of settings. Colleen publishes MathPlayground.com and develops math games, teaching tools, and learning resources that are used in classrooms throughout the world. She has presented her work at ISTE and NCTM conferences and has co-authored several teaching articles.